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Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has signed off on Tiger MkIII de-risking studies to enhance the next-generation combat capabilities of the Tiger attack helicopter.
OCCAR has commissioned Airbus Helicopters, on behalf of the French, German and Spanish armament agencies DGA, BAAINBw and DGAM, to perform de-risking studies aimed at providing the Tiger with next-generation battlefield capabilities.
Their main objective is to prepare the development and retrofit phases of the new avionics, mission and weapon systems of the Tiger. Thales and MBDA will also take part in the studies.
"We are proud to be preparing the future of the Tiger as it represents a major program for the European defence co-operation initiative," said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters.
There have been 178 Tigers delivered to France, Germany, Spain and Australia, and have accumulated over 110,000 flight hours to date. First deployed by the French Army in Afghanistan in 2009, the Tiger continues to demonstrate its essential role on theatres of operation as a highly versatile, stealthy, and maneuverable attack helicopter.
"The de-risking studies will ensure that France, Germany and Spain will be able to decide on implementing the additional operational capabilities for their Tiger helicopters," Even added.
The Tiger HAD is Airbus’ multi-role attack helicopter, designed to perform armed reconnaissance, air or ground escort, air-to-air combat, ground fire support, destruction and anti-tank warfare, day or night and in adverse conditions. Tiger HAD Block 2 helicopters are also “navalised”, allowing operations from ships and in maritime environments.
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